Smokey Air

Observation: Wildfires are burning to the north and south of Anchorage and the air quality has declined throughout much of Southcentral Alaska This has resulted in poor visibility, a smokey smell, and generally poor air quality. These conditions are raising concerns about respiratory problems. Record temperatures, persistent drought after a near snowless winter, and unusual dry lightening are factors contributing to the wildfires and resulting smoke. I took this photo from near the base of Flattop Mountain. The entire panorama was clouded with smoke and downtown Anchorage could barely be seen. People are thinking hard and making choices about outdoor activities, and hoping that the giant camp fire environment will end soon. For many people to the north and south, the air quality is the least of their problems as the wait to see what remains of the homes.

Video: Quite the fire season here in southcentral Alaska – length 54 sec. (Filmed by M. Brubaker)